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The Telegraph: Muslim cleric brings Islamabad to standstill

A little-known Muslim cleric brought the Pakistani capital to a standstill, as
thousands of his supporters descended on the city centre, demanding electoral reforms
and an end to political corruption.

By Rob Crilly, Islamabad3:26PM GMT 14 Jan 2013

Riot police patrolled the city, closing off roads and using containers to shield
diplomatic missions.

The emergence of Tahir-ul-Qadri – who lived quietly in Canada until a month ago
- has electrified the country's political scene, sparking frantic manoeuvring by
a government fearful his demands could delay elections due in the spring.

He left the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday afternoon with about 10,000 supporters
and is scheduled to address a growing crowd in Islamabad on Monday night.

Supporters gathered all day in the city centre, carrying blankets and food, and
promising not to leave until their demands were met.

Khalid Qureshi, who had travelled about 50 miles to attend the rally, said he
was prepared to stay for weeks if not months.

"We want democracy," he said. "The system is corrupt and only lets rich people
have power."

The government of Asif Ali Zardari is due to complete its five-year-term in March.
Successful elections would then mark the first time power has been transferred from
one elected government to another.

Western donors have largely given up on Mr Zardari's administration but stress
the importance of completing the transition to democracy after years of military
rule.

Dr Qadri is demanding the country be handed over to a caretaker administration
which would be charged with pushing through reforms ahead of elections.

The prospect troubles many in Pakistan, who fear such a proposal would lead to
months of wrangling and a delay in polls.

Dr Qadri's critics suspect he may even be acting in concert with the country's
powerful generals, who have seized power three times in the past and are accused
repeatedly of destabilising civilian governments.

Javed Siddiq, Islamabad editor of the Nawa-e-Waqt newspaper, said his sudden
rise, ability to attract crowds and big advertising budget made many wonder about
his backers.

"They think he has come with an agenda of a foreign power or it is army inspired,"
he said.